India adds four spin net bowlers for Sri Lanka Test series

India has bolstered its preparations for the upcoming Test series in Sri Lanka by adding four specialist spinners as net bowlers. Harsh Dubey, Shivang Kumar, Tanush Kotian, and Vipraj Nigam will travel with the squad to assist in training ahead of the first Test, which begins on August 15 in Galle. The Board of Control for Cricket in India announced the move, emphasizing the need for batters to acclimate to spin-friendly conditions.

The two-match series forms part of the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle. The opening Test will be held at the Galle International Cricket Stadium from August 15 to 19, with the second Test scheduled for the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo from August 23 to 27. The Indian team, led by captain Shubman Gill, is currently fifth in the World Test Championship standings.

The selection of four net bowlers, each offering a distinct style, is a strategic response to the challenging pitches expected in Sri Lanka. Harsh Dubey is a slow left-arm orthodox spinner, Shivang Kumar bowls left-arm wrist spin, Tanush Kotian is a right-arm off-break bowler, and Vipraj Nigam is a right-arm leg-spinner. This variety is intended to give India's top-order batters...